You do well to bring your silent requests before the heavenly Father, for He who sees the heart hears even the unuttered cry. But let your prayer not stand alone; let it be joined to a life that cries out with deeds of mercy. For as I have often said, prayers profit greatly, but it is when we also do something. If you remain idle, no intercession will profit you. What need have you of prayer, you say? Indeed, you have great need, but let your works match your words. Be merciful as your Father is merciful, who feeds even the fornicator and sorcerer. If one is in want, help him. Then your silent petitions will ascend with power.
And do not think that because your requests are unspoken they are unknown. The multitude of the faithful, when gathered together, have great strength; where two or three are in His name, He is in the midst. Your silent offering, made in trust, joins the common consent of the Church. Yet remember: by your words you shall be condemned, even if what you speak is true. Guard your tongue, therefore, and flee slander. Let the reproach of others lighten your own sins, as David did when Shimei cursed him. So shall your prayer be pure, and you will be heard for your godly fear, even as the Son was heard when He offered up supplications with strong crying and tears.
